Differential equation y'' + 2y' + y = 2t^2 - 1

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the differential equation y'' + 2y' + y = 2t^2 - 1, with initial conditions y(0) = 1 and y'(0) = 0. Participants explore methods for solving this equation, particularly through the use of Laplace transforms, and compare it to a similar differential equation.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Mathematical reasoning, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant begins by attempting to solve the differential equation using a similar equation as a reference, suggesting the first step is to set the left part equal to 0.
  • Another participant provides the Laplace transform of y'', indicating it involves terms related to initial conditions and the transforms of y' and y.
  • A participant questions what the solution form would be for the original equation, noting that there should be two terms in the solution.
  • There is a request for clarification on the results obtained from applying the Laplace transform to the second equation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the specific terms of the solution for the original differential equation, and there are varying levels of understanding regarding the application of Laplace transforms.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the application of Laplace transforms, including the handling of initial conditions and the specific forms of the solutions for both equations discussed.

Who May Find This Useful

Students or individuals interested in differential equations, particularly those learning about Laplace transforms and their applications in solving initial value problems.

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I'm trying to solve the following differential equation:

y'' + 2y' + y = 2t^2 - 1
y(0) = 1
y'(0) = 0

I'm trying to figure this out by looking at the solution to a similar diff. eq.

y' + 2y = t + 1
y(0) = 1

First step is to set the left part equal to 0

y' + 2y = 0

Then do a laplace transform on both sides:

L(y' + 2y) = L(0)

sY + 2Y = 0

solving the above gives s = -2
plug that into y = Ae^(st) to get y = A^(-2t)

If I were to go this far with the first problem, what would it look like?
 
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The Laplace transform of y'' is [itex]s^2 L(y)- sy(0)- y'(0)[/itex]. Just add that to the Laplace transform of 2y'+ y on the left. The Laplace transform of [itex]2t^2- 1[/itex] is [itex]4/s^2- 1/s[/itex].
 
For the second equation I had

y = Ae^(st)

what about for the first equation? All I know is that there are supposed to be two terms, but I'm not sure what those terms are.
 
What have you done? What equation did you get by applying the Laplace transform to the second equation?
 

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